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Rice vs UCLA: does size matter?

I've managed to narrow down my choices to rice and ucla. The prices will be comparable within 5000 of each other. I am from Ca and the proximity of la offers some definite advantages. I am wondering if i will be sacrificing a more in depth undergrad experience to attend UCLA. I know that ultimately it will be my choice. However, I am attempting to get information or thoughts and in the end make an informed, educated decision about where i will be spending the next four years of my life. Any info would be greatly, greatly appreciated.

Replies to: Rice vs UCLA: does size matter?

I know of at least three folks personally who are instate in CA, got UCLA and Cal, and are choosing to go to Rice. Two of them have regents (either at ucla or cal). Size does matter. Go to Rice. You will be lost in UCLA. No kidding.

@Dinoian, After my first term here at UCLA, I honestly didn't feel lost or "just a number", not I don't really care anyways. I think UCLA is what you make of it, it's all up to you. I know some people who hate it here, but I also know most people, including myself, love it. I think if you're the kind of guy that can stay on top of studies and proactively look for your "niche" then you'll do well.

As for prestige, I think the two are equal in the sense that they really can't be compared. They're strongest in their regions, and when you have that UCLA or Rice name in your resume, nobody would really think that "This kid din't go to (insert school here)?", they'll think that "Oh, he went to UCLA/Rice, a reputable and competitive, if not prestigious, school."

For Graduate School I think it's more of the prestige of the department that you'll be in, your grades, test scores, and recommendations as well. For Law though, you just need to have the grades and the test score.

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